Veterans to march in Malverne parade

Malverne veterans will be marching in the Memorial Day Parade after all — now that its start time has been pushed back to 11 a.m.

After a week of controversy and rumors, the dispute between veterans affiliated with American Legion Malverne Post 44 and the village board over an earlier parade start time came to an end last Thursday night, when Malverne Mayor Patricia McDonald and the trustees agreed on a resolution to start at the traditional time instead of 9 a.m., as was scheduled.

“With everything going on with Deputy Mayor [James] Callahan, it puts things into perspective that this really is not the time to be fighting back and forth,” McDonald told the Herald.

Callahan, 42, suffered a stroke six weeks ago, and remains hospitalized following what Malverne Civic Association President Peter Robideau described as a “major health setback.” Callahan is “gravely ill,” according to McDonald, who broke down while talking about his situation.

Post 44 veterans had decided not to participate in the parade explaining that they felt disrespected because the board didn’t consult them about the time change. They planned to hold their own service at the American Legion Hall, but will now march on May 30 with the rest of the village. “I can imagine that the members will be much relieved that the parade is back to the traditional time,” said Post Commander John Hassett Sr.

Although the veterans got their way with the time change, however, they won’t get their way with the band. One of their primary concerns about the earlier start time was the loss of the Our Lady of Good Council military band, which had marched in the Malverne parade for more than 20 years. Because the band marches in Lynbrook at 9 a.m., the village asked the Malverne High School band to perform in its stead.

Some veterans were unhappy with that decision because they feared they wouldn’t be able to march in time. “It’s nice for young people, but for the older guys to march, it’s very difficult because they have a much faster pace,” Hassett said.